Revving engines, wind in your hair, and the freedom of the open road – it’s no wonder that motorcycles hold a special allure for many thrill-seekers. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are all too common and can have devastating consequences.
In this blog post, we will explain the most common factors that contribute to motorcycle crashes. And remember: if you find yourself needing legal assistance after a crash, an experienced Albany motorcycle accident lawyer can help you file a claim and collect the damages you deserve.
So, how do most motorcycle accidents happen?
1. Failure to Yield Right of Way
Failure to yield right of way is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Whether it’s due to driver inattention or simply not understanding who has priority on the road, this careless action can have disastrous consequences.
When drivers fail to yield, they put motorcyclists at great risk. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making them more vulnerable in these situations. The impact of a collision can result in severe injuries or even fatalities for motorcyclists.
2. Left Turns
Left turns can be a significant cause of motorcycle accidents on the road. One reason left-turn accidents occur is due to a driver misjudging the speed and distance of an approaching motorcycle.
Motorcycles have a smaller profile compared to cars, making them harder for drivers to spot in their peripheral vision. As a result, drivers may turn in front of motorcycles without realizing how close they are.
3. Distracted Driving and Not Checking Blind Spots
Another factor that contributes to left-turn accidents is distracted driving. Many drivers are texting and driving, causing them not to notice an approaching motorcycle until it’s too late.
In addition, some drivers neglect to check their blind spots before making a left turn. This negligence can have severe consequences when there’s a motorcycle traveling in those unseen areas.
4. Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding and reckless driving are significant contributors to motorcycle accidents. When car drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to sudden obstacles or changes in traffic patterns. This increases their risk of hitting a motorcyclist.
Reckless driving behaviors, such as tailgating, swerving in and out of lanes, and ignoring traffic signals, put both motorcyclists and other drivers at risk.
5. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is both dangerous and illegal. In the state of Georgia, the maximum legal BAC level is 0.08 and the penalties are severe even for first-time offenders. However, in 2019, 24% of all traffic fatalities in our state involved a drunk driver.
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable when it comes to accidents caused by DUI drivers. Due to their smaller size and lack of protection compared to cars, motorcycles often go unnoticed by impaired drivers until it’s too late.
In addition, alcohol and certain substances can affect vision perception and depth perception – crucial skills for safe driving. This makes it more difficult for intoxicated drivers to accurately judge distances between their vehicles and motorcycles sharing the road with them.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s intoxication, seeking legal representation from an Albany motorcycle accident lawyer is your best option. They can help you navigate through complex legal processes while fighting for your rights and recovering rightful compensation for your injuries.
6. Opening the Car Door Without Checking for Motorcyclists in the Rearview Mirror
Another common cause of motorcycle accidents is when car drivers or their passengers open their doors without checking for motorcyclists in the rearview mirror. This seemingly innocent action can have devastating consequences for riders.
This type of accident, known as “dooring,” can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. Motorcycles offer very little protection compared to cars, so any impact can be extremely dangerous.
7. Hazardous Road Conditions
Motorcyclists face a unique set of challenges on the road, and one of the biggest dangers they encounter is hazardous road conditions.
Potholes, in particular, pose a significant threat to motorcyclists. A seemingly harmless hole in the pavement can cause a motorcycle to lose balance and result in an accident. Uneven surfaces are also problematic as they can cause the bike’s tires to lose traction, making it difficult for riders to maintain control.
Another hazard that motorcyclists must contend with is loose gravel or debris on the road. These obstacles can make it challenging for riders to navigate turns safely and may cause them to skid or slide out of control.
Inclement weather conditions such as rain or snow add another layer of risk for motorcyclists. Slippery roads reduce tire grip, making it harder for riders to brake effectively and maneuver around obstacles.
8. Lane Switching
When drivers abruptly change lanes without signaling or checking their blind spots, they put motorcyclists at risk. Motorcycles are smaller and more difficult to spot than cars, making it even more dangerous when a driver fails to notice them.
One of the main reasons for lane-switching accidents is distracted driving. Many drivers use their phones, talk to passengers, or engage in other activities while behind the wheel.
Additionally, inadequate use of turn signals can also contribute to lane-switching accidents involving motorcycles. Failing to indicate an intention to change lanes leaves motorcyclists unaware and unprepared for the sudden movements of nearby vehicles.
How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help You Win Damages
When you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, it can be overwhelming to deal with the aftermath. From medical bills to bike repairs, the financial strain can start piling up quickly. That’s where a motorcycle accident attorney comes in.
One of the key ways an Albany motorcycle crash lawyer helps you win damages is by negotiating with insurance companies. Insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize payouts or even deny claims altogether. But with a skilled lawyer on your side, they won’t be able to take advantage of you.
Additionally, an attorney can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and deadlines are met. They will also represent you in court if your case goes to trial.
By working with a motorcycle accident attorney, you increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Contact Our Albany Law Firm to Schedule a Free Case Review!
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The aftermath of these accidents can be overwhelming, both emotionally and financially. That’s where a skilled motorcycle accident attorney in Albany comes in.
An experienced lawyer is dedicated to fighting for your rights and helping you obtain the compensation you deserve. They understand the unique challenges that arise in these types of cases and have the knowledge and expertise to navigate through them.
At our law firm, each new client receives a free case review. Call us today at 229-210-6226 to schedule your initial consultation!
